Voice and motion capture actors have reached a new agreement with gaming studios aimed at safeguarding them from artificial intelligence and enhancing their working conditions. According to Reuters, this information comes from the SAG-AFTRA union.
Sara Elmaleh, a voice actor known for her work on titles like Final Fantasy XV and Call of Duty: Black Ops III, emphasized that the ethical use of artificial intelligence was a central theme of the new agreement. She highlighted the importance of establishing clear ethical guidelines for AI usage in the gaming sector.
The agreement introduces new protective measures requiring studios to obtain consent and inform actors about the use of AI to replicate their voices. Additionally, actors will have the right to withdraw their consent during potential strikes.
This deal has been secured with various gaming studios, including Activision Productions, Blindlight, Disney Character Voices, Electronic Arts Productions, Formosa Interactive, Insomniac Games, Llama Productions, Take 2 Productions, and WB Games.
“We are pleased that SAG-AFTRA members have ratified the new 'Interactive Media Agreement', which includes historic wage increases, industry-leading AI protections, and enhanced health and safety measures for performers,” stated Audrey Cooling, spokesperson for the studios.
The 'Interactive Media Agreement' received support from 95.04% of SAG-AFTRA members. In addition to foundational AI principles, it also provides for increased safety measures for motion capture actors who may risk their health while performing. Medical personnel will now be available during high-risk work.
An important aspect of the agreement is the salary increase for both motion capture and voice actors, which will rise by 15.17%, followed by 3% increases in November 2025, 2026, and 2027.